Whole30 Marry Me Chicken
Whole30 Marry Me Chicken is more than just a dish – it’s a heartwarming culinary experience that speaks love with every bite. My first encounter with this recipe was during a bustling weeknight, when I needed something quick yet utterly delicious. The combination of tender chicken, creamy coconut, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or an inviting family dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for something comforting yet healthy.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s a wholesome Whole30-friendly dish that combines nutrition without sacrificing taste. The creamy coconut cream offers a luscious texture, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy punch. Not only is it quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights—but it’s also budget-friendly and kid-approved, making it a winner in any household. Plus, it can easily transform a simple meal into a memorable occasion.
"I served this dish for dinner, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it! It tasted like something you’d order at a restaurant but was so easy to make at home."
The cooking process explained
Ready to whip up a delightful meal? This recipe comes together seamlessly in a few simple steps. You’ll start by searing chicken in a pan, then whisk together an amazing sauce and finish it all off in one skillet. That’s right—minimal cleanup! This straightforward process means you get a richly flavored dish without any complicated culinary challenges.
What you’ll need
Here’s the ingredient lineup for your Whole30 Marry Me Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1" cubes
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt (or salt, divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
- 1 13.66-ounce can full-fat unsweetened canned coconut cream (chilled; solid part only)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1-2 tablespoons arrowroot or potato starch
- 1 8-ounce jar sun-dried tomatoes (drained, blotted dry, and chopped—about a 1/3 cup)
- 0.5 ounces fresh basil (optional but highly recommended)
Feel free to substitute the olive oil with avocado oil if you prefer, and use fresh garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- In the last minute of cooking, stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant.
- While the chicken cooks, whisk together the chicken broth, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, the remaining salt, and 1 tablespoon of your chosen starch in a medium bowl.
- Prepare your sun-dried tomatoes by draining, blotting dry, and chopping them finely.
- Once the chicken is ready, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan and mix well.
- Incorporate only the solid part of the chilled coconut cream, stirring until melted.
- Pour in the chicken broth mixture and bring it to a boil; reduce to a simmer and let it thicken, which should take about 5 minutes. Adjust the thickness using additional chicken broth or starch as needed.
- Taste and season with more salt if desired. Serve alongside your favorite veggies or over steaming cauliflower rice.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Whole30 Marry Me Chicken is all about presentation and sides. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with steamed veggies like broccoli or sautéed zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition. If you want to keep it low-carb, serving it over cauliflower rice gives you that comforting “rice” feeling without the carbs. Top it with fresh basil for a sprinkling of flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Whole30 Marry Me Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to maintain its creamy consistency. This dish can also be frozen; simply portion it out and freeze in safe freezer containers for up to three months. Always make sure to label your containers with the date you prepared it.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor and texture, ensure your coconut cream is chilled before using. This makes it much easier to scoop out the solid part without the liquid. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet while cooking the chicken, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. And why not experiment with additional spices like paprika or even a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing?
Creative twists
Feel free to put your unique spin on Whole30 Marry Me Chicken. Add a dash of smoked paprika for depth or some chopped spinach for extra nutrition. If you’re a fan of different cuisines, consider adding a hint of curry powder for an exotic touch. You could even replace sun-dried tomatoes with fresh diced tomatoes for a lighter twist during the summer months.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare Whole30 Marry Me Chicken?
The total cooking time is about 30-35 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight meal.
Are there any substitutions for the chicken?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option, or even swap it for firm tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Can I use light coconut milk instead of coconut cream?
While you can use light coconut milk, be aware that it may alter the creaminess of the dish. The thicker texture of coconut cream is what gives this recipe its signature richness.
Now you’re all set to create a stunning meal that’s bound to impress, all while staying on track with your Whole30 journey. Happy cooking!
Whole30 Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- In the last minute of cooking, stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant.
- While the chicken cooks, whisk together the chicken broth, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, the remaining salt, and 1 tablespoon of your chosen starch in a medium bowl.
- Prepare your sun-dried tomatoes by draining, blotting dry, and chopping them finely.
- Once the chicken is ready, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan and mix well.
- Incorporate only the solid part of the chilled coconut cream, stirring until melted.
- Pour in the chicken broth mixture and bring it to a boil; reduce to a simmer and let it thicken, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Adjust the thickness using additional chicken broth or starch as needed.
- Taste and season with more salt if desired, then serve alongside your favorite veggies or over steaming cauliflower rice.
